Patio Program

Private property guidelines

In order to ensure safe operation of outdoor patios on private property, operators must follow the guidelines below:

• Shall not build or expand permanent structures like decks, walls, stairs, etc.
• Shall not amplify sound of any type
• Shall not block access to fire connections/fire routes or adjacent businesses
• Private patio operators are solely responsible for ensuring their patio meets AODA requirements, complies with the Noise Bylaw and meets any other regulatory requirements.
• Conditions imposed by the Town (e.g. hours of operation) will apply to any expanded patio area.
• The permit becomes null and void if the applicant should fail to meet the requirements of the permit

Temporary patio outdoor heater guidelines

• No fueled heating appliance is permitted in any enclosed or partially enclosed area.
• Installing a fueled fire appliance (i.e. propane heaters, BBQ) on an outdoor patio must be certified and comply with all Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) regulations
• All fuel fired appliances must have a clearance of 3’ from all flammable materials and devices with an open flame must be secured
• TSSA may also require specific clearances for placement of heater devices

Tents and other similar structures guidelines

• Tents/structures are not permitted in the right of way (sidewalks and curb lanes) to ensure full visibility for people driving, on bikes and pedestrians
• At least two full sides of the outdoor dining area tent must be open to the outdoors and must not be substantially blocked in any way
• Tent walls must not exceed > 50% of the perimeter
• For public safety and accessibility reasons, nothing may be drilled or affixed to the sidewalk or roadway
• No fueled heating appliance is permitted in any enclosed or partially enclosed area
• Tents will require building permits if > 60 m2. All tents must be no closer than 3 metres from a building whether or not a building permit is required.
• All tents with area greater than 60 m2 on it’s own, or aggregate area of a group of tents less than 3 metres to each other require a building permit
• Any tent > 225 m2 require professional engineer (p.eng) design and review
• All tents requiring a permit must be certified to CAN/ULC-S109
• Toilets must be provided to comply with the occupant load of the tent. If the main building’s toilets are being used to support the tent, the occupant load will be limited based on the total occupant load of building plus tent. Please note this may be offset with COVID-related restriction on indoor eating and may be reviewed at the time of a building permit application.
• A building permit application must include a design of all fabric materials and structural supports and be prepared by a qualified designer.